Cory Ann Ellis enrolled at CRC in fall of 1994 with no clearly defined goals and no expectations of college life. Through the guidance of her athletic advisor, Steve Krisiak and soccer coach Liz Belyea, Cory Ann began her path to success. As a first-generation college attendee, Cory Ann rented a room in Lodi, shared an apartment with friend, and then eventually rented a room from a wonderful family in Elk Grove. Now a successful owner of a photography and marketing business, Cory Ann reflects on her years at CRC.
After graduating in spring 1997 with an AA - General Education, Cory Ann attended military training, enrolled at Westmar University in LeMars, IA, transferred to Colorado Tech in Huron SD, and completed her BS at the University of Sioux Falls, SD. Cory Ann now lives in Brookings, SD where, in addition to managing her business, she ran as an independent candidate for South Dakota District 7 House. When asked if she could ever have envisioned her career path while attending CRC, Cory Ann said “I did not. But that would not be because of CRC, it is because I had no examples of academic success. It was CRC that helped me realize that I could go further and do more.”
“My time at CRC was a massive help in my original career choice as I was introduced to coaching while playing soccer for Liz Belyea. Liz provided connections and opportunities for me to gain experience in the coaching field. While I am no longer in the coaching and teaching profession, the foundational principals I learned while at CRC and in that career are put into practice every day.” Cory Ann is still in touch with Liz to this day – their families’ often vacation together. Cory Ann brought honor to Cosumnes River College as an All-Conference, All Northern California, and All Region award winner. In 2010 she was inducted into the CRC Athletic Hall of Fame.
To Cory Ann, CRC can be described in two words: “Essential. Home.” Her advice for incoming students is to ask for help when needed. Without the guidance and support from Steve and Liz, Cory Ann’s path could have gone in a different direction.
Her lasting impression of CRC is of admiration. From walking among the trees to studying in the library, to playing ball on the field, Cory Ann has fond memories of CRC.
“CRC is where I met people I would later call family, made lifetime friends, and realized I c​ould be my own person, independent of my origins. CRC is where ‘my’ story starts.”
